Bangkok – In a landmark move to combat the growing threat of cyber fraud in Southeast Asia, AIS, Singtel, and Maxis, leading telecommunications providers in the region, have announced a strategic partnership. The collaboration will leverage the power of open Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to enhance real-time data sharing, strengthen identity verification, and bolster fraud prevention measures.
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This groundbreaking initiative marks the first international telecommunications collaboration on APIs, setting a new standard for cross-border cooperation in cybersecurity. By expanding the AIS Open API services, the partnership aims to extend the reach of secure user verification and fraud prevention applications across the region, safeguarding businesses and consumers alike.
AIS Open API: A Powerful Tool for Security and Innovation
The AIS Open API is a suite of certified connectivity services (APIs) by GSMA, the global mobile industry body. It empowers application developers from various sectors to access telecommunications network capabilities, fostering innovation and enhancing user security. The current services offered by the AIS Open API include:
- Digital User Authentication: Enables businesses to verify the identity of users registered with telecom companies,adding an extra layer of security to online transactions.
- SIM Swap Detection: Helps detect fraudulent activities by checking if transactions are being conducted from devices with recently changed SIM cards.
These services are particularly crucial in the context of Southeast Asia, where online transaction fraud is rampant,primarily driven by automated bots targeting e-commerce payments. The AIS Open API is designed to address this challenge head-on, providing businesses with the tools they need to protect their customers and their bottom line.
Applications Across Industries
The AIS Open API has far-reaching applications across various industries, including banking, financial services, e-commerce, and online gaming. By enabling enhanced multi-factor authentication through Number Verification API,businesses can ensure safer transactions for their customers. Additionally, the SIM Swap API helps prevent account takeovers, a common tactic used by cybercriminals to steal sensitive information and funds.
The collaboration between AIS, Singtel, and Maxis is expected to significantly reduce the risk of fraud, enhancing customer trust and confidence in digital services. By working together, these telecom providers are taking a proactive approach to cybersecurity, minimizing the impact of cyber threats on businesses and consumers in the region.
“This collaboration is a significant step in our mission to protect the safety of our customers and digital service users,” said Mr. Phupa Akavipat, Acting Chief Enterprise Business Officer, AIS. “By leveraging our telecommunications expertise and resources with Singtel and Maxis, we are creating the powerful ‘AIS Open API’ platform. This will enhance credibility and security for businesses and consumers in Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore.”
Mr. Ng Tian Chong, Chief Executive Officer, Singtel Singapore, emphasized the importance of addressing the growing threat of digital fraud in the region. “We are delighted to collaborate with AIS and Maxis to address this issue and protect customers. This collaboration will enable the use of telecom data to seamlessly verify identities, protect, and reduce financial losses, ensuring a secure digital experience for customers in Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia.”
Mr. Goh Seow Eng, Chief Executive Officer of Maxis, highlighted the commitment of Maxis to providing secure connectivity to its customers. “This collaboration protects customers against online threat actors so they can progress on their digital transformation journey with peace of mind.”
Julian Gorman, Head of Asia Pacific at the GSMA, praised the initiative as a model for international cooperation in cybersecurity. “I’m delighted three of Asia’s most innovative mobile operators have come together, through the GSMA Open Gateway initiative, to tackle online fraud and help increase consumer trust in new digital services across Malaysia,Singapore, and Thailand.”
A Unified Effort for a Safer Digital Future
The signing ceremony for the partnership took place at the Digital Nation Summit in Singapore on July 25, 2024. The collaboration will initially serve over 61.6 million users across Thailand (45 million AIS users), Malaysia (12 million Maxis users), and Singapore (4.6 million Singtel users).
This unified effort is a testament to the commitment of AIS, Singtel, and Maxis to create a safer digital future for Southeast Asia. By leveraging the power of open APIs and collaborating across borders, these telecom giants are setting a new benchmark for cybersecurity in the region.
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